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Joined:
April 2010
Posts: 12
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado | 1. We know that Ovation recommends using Mineral Oil on the FretBoard to keep it in a healthy condition.
2. Does Ovation recommend any deep cleaner creams for the Guitar finish?
3. Does Ovation recommend any Polishes, and/or waxes for the final step of the clean?
4. Does Ovation recommend any spray Polishes for the everyday cleanup?
5. I have never used cleaners for the Strings, but since we are here, does Ovation recommend anything about cleaning the strings other than just using a cloth to rub down the strings after each day of playing? |
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Joined:
January 2002
Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch | just change the strings
use pledge and an old golf towel or t shirt. |
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Joined:
December 2004
Posts: 4394
Location: East Tennessee | An old cotton baby diaper works well with the pledge. |
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Joined:
December 2004
Posts: 4394
Location: East Tennessee | An old cotton baby diaper works well with the pledge. For fingerprints and after playing I wipe the top and strings with a micro-fiber towel,(Thanks iffy). |
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Joined:
August 2002
Posts: 8307
Location: Tennessee | Originally posted by Capo Guy:
An old cotton baby diaper works well with the pledge. Just make sure you wash it first. |
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Joined:
January 2002
Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch | a new. clean baby diaper........ |
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Joined:
March 2002
Posts: 15654
Location: SoCal | You mean my guitar's not supposed to be turning brown? |
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Joined:
December 2004
Posts: 4394
Location: East Tennessee | Not unless it's a sunburst finish. :D |
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Joined:
May 2008
Posts: 4996
Location: Phoenix AZ | Originally posted by slx5c:
1. We know that Ovation recommends using Mineral Oil on the FretBoard to keep it in a healthy Yes, we learned that in yesterdays installment of guitar care 101.
Use the SEARCH function and just look up cleaning or maintenance etc. And you will find tons of info on these topics. |
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Joined:
September 2006
Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR | Ovation sez:
Caring For Your Guitar
Here are the basics on keeping your guitar in tip-top shape. The four most important things you need to do for your guitar:
1. Keep it clean
2. Keep it comfortable
3. Don't hurt it
4. Play the heck out of it
Keep it clean:
There are many fine cleaning products available for your guitar at your local music store. Invest in a good polish and a couple of lint-free polishing rags.
* Wipe the strings down with a dry cloth after playing. Use guitar polish sparingly on the rest of the guitar.
* If the strings are dead or discolored, change them. We use D'Addario EXP16s from the factory. We use 4444 Adamas for nylon string models and EXP26 for our 12-string models. For routine changes, change strings one at a time. This will put less stress on the truss rod.
* On satin finishes, the wood will take on a nice patina (shine) over time. Again, use your polish sparingly!
* Use lemon oil or a "conditioner" on the fingerboard and bridge a couple of times a year, or if the wood looks dry. You'll need to take off all of the strings to do this.
Keep it comfortable:
Generally, if you are comfortable, your guitar will be comfortable. Try to keep the temperature moderate and keep the guitar between 40-60% humidity. Use a humidifier in the case or room if:
* You frequently run the heat or air conditioner.
* You are in the mountains or desert.
* You aren't sure.
* If you live by the shore, or on a boat you probably don't need a humidifier. A desiccant (silicon pack) in the case may be needed.
Don't hurt it:
* Do not shock your guitar or subject it to extremes! If you are out in the snow, and enter a warm house or club, do not open the case until the guitar inside has come up to temperature.
* Do not leave your guitar in the trunk of your car! (That will kill your guitar and you will be very sad!)
* Make sure you have the proper case. When you close the lid, be sure to latch it! Carry the case with the lid towards you. Backwards down the stairs and forward going up.
* If you don't know what you are doing with the truss rod, don't goof with it. Get to know a good guitar tech.
* Don't tune it above pitch. The A string should be 110 HZ or cycles per second. Electronic tuners are inexpensive and reliable.
* If traveling by plane, be very careful. Loosen all the strings on your guitar and use the best fitting, best constructed case you can find.
Play the heck out of it:
Not only will you feel good and get a rush from playing your guitar, but the more you play will help the solid woods to develop tone. This also helps to keep you in touch with your guitar, should it need maintenance.
On occasion, your guitar will require service. This might include a truss rod adjustment and set up. If you play a lot, you will eventually need your frets dressed or maybe a new saddle or nut. |
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Joined:
May 2008
Posts: 4996
Location: Phoenix AZ | Aw, there you go. All you could ever need to know about caring for your guitar. |
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Joined:
November 2004
Posts: 4413
| Didn't the factory say they were going to include the stuff about string tubes in the next printing of the manual? |
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Cleaning Guitar Maintenance
